Infantino Apologizes for British Fan Remarks, Defends Trump Peace Prize
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FIFA President Gianni Infantino has issued an apology for comments suggesting the 2022 World Cup in Qatar was notable for the absence of British arrests, while simultaneously defending the controversial decision to award a peace prize to former US President Donald Trump.
Gianni Infantino, facing mounting criticism, addressed the remarks made at last month’s World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. He stated the comments were intended as a lighthearted observation about the peaceful nature of the tournament.
Qatar World Cup Comments Deemed “Inaccurate”
Infantino’s initial statement – that the Qatar World Cup was special because “for the first time in history no Brit was arrested” – drew swift condemnation. The Football Supporters’ Association labeled the comment a “cheap” joke at the expense of fans. Mark Roberts, the UK’s football policing lead chief constable, further dismissed the claim as “neither helpful nor accurate,” citing the historical record of fan behavior at previous tournaments and subsequent events.
In a subsequent interview with Sky News, Infantino offered an apology. “I need first to apologise,” he said. “It was meant to be more of a lighthearted remark to show that actually the World Cup in Qatar was a celebration, was a peaceful event and everyone came together in a peaceful way.” He emphasized the positive image of “English fans – real fans – coming in a peaceful way and enjoying and cheering for their team.”
Defending the Trump Peace Prize
The controversy extended beyond fan behavior to FIFA’s decision to bestow an inaugural peace prize upon Donald Trump at the World Cup draw in Washington D.C. in December. This decision was widely criticized, particularly in light of subsequent actions by the US government, including the seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and threats regarding military intervention in Greenland.
Despite the backlash, Infantino staunchly defended the award. “Objectively, he deserves it,” he asserted to Sky News. He highlighted Trump’s role in brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, claiming he was “instrumental in resolving conflicts and saving thousands of lives.”
Reconsidering Russia’s Ban from International Football
Infantino also indicated a potential shift in FIFA’s stance regarding Russia’s ban from international football, imposed following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. He stated that FIFA and UEFA “have to” consider allowing Russia back into competition, particularly at the youth level, following a recommendation from the International Olympic Committee.
“This ban has not achieved anything,” Infantino argued. “It has just created more frustration and hatred. Having girls and boys from Russia being able to play football games in other parts of Europe would help.” FIFA announced plans on December 17th for a new U-15 festival, open to all 211 member associations, with boys’ and girls’ events scheduled for the coming years.
Dismissing World Cup Boycott Concerns
Infantino also addressed concerns about a potential boycott of future World Cups stemming from policies enacted by the Trump administration. He dismissed these concerns, pointing out that there were no widespread calls for businesses to boycott the US.
“So why football?” he questioned. “In our divided world, in our aggressive world, we need occasions where people can come, can meet around the passion [for football].”
